Description
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and delicious Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta and vibrant broccoli florets in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This easy stovetop recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With the option to add a hint of lemon zest or spice from red pepper flakes, it offers a flavorful twist to a classic pasta meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the final 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to evenly coat. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: If desired, stir in the lemon zest to brighten the flavors. Serve the creamy broccoli pasta hot with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Blend some of the cooked broccoli with pasta water to create a thicker, vibrant green sauce.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to increase protein content and make it a heartier meal.
